Compact satcom dome

This new satcom dome is also proposed as a back-up system for larger workboats that already have a primary satcom system. With a diameter of just 37cms, the Tracphone V3-HTS is claimed to be smaller in physical size that any other Ku-band marine satellite communications antenna on the market and it is designed to provide faster data speeds that many larger marine satellite antenna.

This new antenna will make internet connectivity and HD quality streaming possible on vessels that do not have space for a large satcom dome. The unit is specifically designed to operate on KVH’s mini-sat broadband network and this network will provide unmatched speed and coverage using the new next-generation high throughput satellites on Intelsat’s global network all of which are fully integrated under the IntelsatOne Flex for maritime platforms.

“Ensuring that mariners around the World can experience the benefits of connectivity at sea has been the driving force for KVH for many years and the new TracPhone V3-HTS makes that possible for more types of boats that ever before,” commented Brent Bruun, KVH’s chief operating officer. “KVH streamlines the entire process of getting broadband on a boat by offering monthly airtime and value-added services as a complete package.”

The new antenna weighs in at just 11kg and is combined with a mini-VSAT Manager unit below decks. In addition to downloading and uploading data the new unit includes a clear Voice over Internet quality phone service. It is anticipated that this new satcom system will be particularly valuable for survey craft that need to upload large qualities of data. Uploading speeds of 2Mbps are on offer with downloading speeds of 5Mbps.

The safety aspects of this new system are found in the possibility of smaller vessels being able to update their electronic charts by downloading chart corrections and it will also be possible to download complex weather information. It will also be possible to incorporate vessel tracking into the system. Servicing packages are available that promise prompt attention to faults.